Jane/Curtis Group - Red Cell Research

Division of Blood Cancers

Goal

To identify regulators of red cell production and function including globin switching

Research Focus and Tools

Globin switching

ENU mutagenesis in the mouse

Research Overview

Globin switching - Defining the molecular mechanisms underpinning fetal (gamma) globin gene silencing may provide strategies for reactivation of gamma-gene expression, a major therapeutic objective in patients with beta-thalassemia and sickle cell disease. Our laboratory has identified and defined the NF-E2 transcription factor complex as a critical regulator of the beta globin locus. The laboratory is now focusing on the therapeutic potential of targeting PRMT5, a critical component of the complex that represses gamma globin.

ENU-mutagenesis - Chemical mutagenesis has been used to identify genetic pathways in lower organism for more than 20 years. We have recently used ENU mutagenesis in the mouse to generate mouse lines with defects in red blood cells. The laboratory has over 20 different mutant lines, revealing surprising insights into how red cells are produced and function